MALE UAV and its systems as basis of future definitions

What is it about?

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to present a definition of modern configuration for a MALE UAV and its On-Board Systems, in order to obtain a suitable basis for future definitions like a possible Logistic Support Configuration first hypothesis. Design/methodology/approach – Starting from high level requirements, both the UAV conceptual design and on-board systems preliminary design have been carried out through proprietary tools. Then, some peculiarities from previous studies, like SAvE, have been maintained and confirmed (Diesel propulsion, Energy Storage System). Findings – The improvement of a component of aircraft can play a relevant role on the whole system. In the paper it is considered how a concept of MALE UAV can evolve (this topic considered by the authors, since many years ago) by incorporating advanced On-Board Systems concepts. Practical implications – Promote and support with numerical results the use of advanced on-board system solutions and architectures to improve the effectiveness, efficiency and performance of MALE UAV. Originality/value – Usually, conceptual and preliminary design phases analyse in-depth the aerodynamic and structural solutions and aircraft performance. In this study, the authors have the aim to focus on the advanced on-board systems for the MALE UAV. This kind of aircraft is not yet a mature concept with very few operating machine and many projects in development phase.

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